As the body of Christ in South Africa, we are facing a deep moral crisis.

Voices of anger and intimidation are calling for foreigners to be driven from our communities. As a pastor, I must speak plainly: you cannot be a Bible-believing, church-going Christian and participate in, support or applaud a crowd that threatens foreigners.

Xenophobia – the fear or hatred of the stranger – is not merely a political opinion; it is a spiritual failure. It is a fruit of Satan, who seeks to kill, steal and destroy human dignity.

In stark contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love. Scripture commands us in Leviticus 19:34:

“The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt.”

How can we, in good conscience, mistreat or terrify fellow human beings who are made in the image of God?

This is especially true of those who are in South Africa legally, operating legitimate businesses and respecting our laws. They are our neighbours.

To be clear, Scripture does not advocate lawlessness. God is a God of order. Foreigners living in any country are expected to respect its laws, as Romans 13 teaches. Those who break the law or refuse to contribute positively to South Africa should face the legal consequences of their actions through the proper channels.

Faith calls believers to show love and uphold justice

However, South African citizens cannot allow themselves to become part of the problem by taking the law into their own hands through threats, intimidation or violence.

When we act out of malice, we align ourselves with the enemy rather than the Saviour.

Let us choose the way of Christ. Let us uphold righteousness, pursue justice and reject the spirit of xenophobia.

May our churches be sanctuaries of lawfulness, compassion and justice for all.

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